“We have a lot more activities planned,” Preschool Administrator Lenora “Ponie” Mojado said. “We have more than 15 new students this year but a lot of returnees, too.”

She said there will be more focus on social emotional learning (SEL) which involves self-awareness, self-management, social awareness, relationship skills, and responsible decision making. Lessons will revolve around identifying feelings and learning how to express them in a positive way and be adapted to each specific age group. Preschoolers will learn more through play therapy while kindergartners can understand bigger concepts and grasp ideas since many already possess social emotional intelligence.

Preschool teacher Julissa Garcia has assistance from Instructional Aide Jess Thompson and preschool staff member Jasmine Basquez where they have dubbed it the “Home Sweet Classroom.” They have set it up to closely mimic a household to help the children make the transition from their first experience of being away from home. They have a reading garden, a kitchen and laundry room. There are framed photos of family members throughout the room.

“We want to make them as comfortable as possible, making it feel homey in here,” Garcia said. She said the children are opening up a lot more already and they are seeing their unique personalities emerge. The focus will be on improving fine and gross motor skills that will be achieved through crafts and fun activities. They are also trying to incorporate the Luiseño language into their lessons a lot more this year.

Pre-kindergarten teacher Ana Garcia and Instructional Aide Alaina Adkins have a “Welcome to the Jungle” classroom theme and the children are loving it. From a reading hut area where they can pretend to be animals in the forest to areas for art and life skills, students are encouraged to be “wild about learning.”

“We are offering a lot of hands-on learning for the first part of the semester and after winter break we will offer more in-depth lessons to prepare them for their transition into kindergarten,” Adkins said.

She said many of the children in her classroom attended the preschool last year, so they are familiar with the campus already. There are three new students that have been added so far and she said they are adjusting very well.

“It’s their first experience being in an environment with other children their age but they all love doing the new things we put out for them, so it makes us happy that they enjoy it,” Garcia said.

Marian Chacon’s great-grandson Brian is four years old and his older sister Violet, who graduated from the Soboba Tribal Preschool, is in second grade now. Brian treated his family members to a grand tour of all the different areas he utilizes in his pre-k classroom.

Shakoora Kabeer has two daughters at the school this year—Daiya Muhammad, 3, and Sumaya Muhammad, 4. She said enrolling them at the preschool came at the perfect time as she also has a newborn, Safiya, who is only a month old.

Kindergarten teacher Laura Aldrete said things have been going well since school started in early August. To conserve paper, the children are using dry erase workbooks and are working on their fine motor skills. The students are seated in small groups of three, which is a change from last year’s class where each desk was independent.

Chase Davies has a son, Hunwut Castello, in preschool and a daughter, Moyla Castello, in kindergarten and loves the school. She said Moyla has lots of friends and cousins in her class.

“They do a lot with their culture and teach them words of the day and week in Luiseño,” Davies said. Even though this is his first school experience, she said once Hunwut gets on campus he loves it.

Families were treated to a delicious stew created by Head Chef Anita Morillo and her kitchen staff Arturo Horta and Perry ReDonde, served in the multipurpose room. Also on hand were vendors that offer resources to families with children of all ages. School psychologist Rachelle Peterson shared her role with families, which includes spending mornings at the preschool to provide emotional and behavioral support, counseling, skills building, family support and more.

Representatives from Soboba Tribal Family Services shared the various programs they offer to support families. Alicia Golchuk, Desiree Salazar and Catherine Gonzalez were available to answer questions and share information.

Health Education Assistants Hosea Jones and Taylor Hart with the CalFresh Healthy Living program for Riverside University Health System offered activity books that make it fun for young kids to learn about eating healthy. They also brought along a fresh fruit punch to show there are delicious tasting healthy alternatives to sugary drinks and sodas.

“We plan to stay connected to the preschool and provide nutritional information whenever we are invited to do so,” Jones said.

Sylvan Learning has tutors working with some of the kindergarten students Monday-Thursday and they also offer assistance to Soboba Tribal TANF students of all ages. “Parents find it helpful that the tutoring closes any gaps their child may have,” Lead tutor Victoria Valenzuela said. She added that being able to do their homework in that setting is a huge benefit for the students.

Tribal Family Partners Project Coordinator Jessica Plumlee shared a fishing game with the young people that helps enhance hand-eye coordination, while bringing awareness to her program to the adults. The home visitation program serves mothers and babies as it is built around mindfulness and can help reduce any postpartum issues that new mothers may have. “It’s all about keeping our families strong and healthy,” she said.

Also hosting tables and handing out goodies for the children at the event were members of the Soboba Fire Department and the Department of Public Safety.

The Soboba Tribal Preschool provides comprehensive education for children from preschool to kindergarten and staff is committed to creating a pathway to success. Age and developmentally appropriate lessons and activities are designed to engage children and promote growth in all areas. Its quality programming and nurturing environment meet the educational and developmental needs of children living on the Soboba Indian Reservation and surrounding tribal communities. The Luiseño culture and language play a significant role in the school’s curriculum.

Mojado, who works closely with Administrative Assistant Maria Hernandez, said she hopes to get more parent volunteers this year. She said they are also encouraging parents to make sure the students arrive on time so as not to cause a classroom distraction. Mojado added that while there are definitely times children need to stay home due to illness and other factors, she wants parents to understand that missing school means their children are missing out on important lessons as many things are taught on a graduated basis and all steppingstones are necessary to reach their full potential.

For more information, call 951-487-8732 or visit https://preschool.soboba-nsn.gov/.

The post A new year of learning begins at Soboba Tribal Preschool appeared first on The Hemet & San Jacinto Chronicle.

Emcee Steven Estrada, who serves as Tribal Executive Officer, introduced Tribal Council Chairman Isaiah Vivanco to say a few words. After welcoming everyone and asking for a round of applause for all of the students, he thanked Sponsorship and Higher Education Coordinator Andrew Vallejos and his team for all their efforts in setting up the event.

“I’d like to thank all the elders, grandparents, parents, siblings, aunts, uncles and everybody here for supporting our youth,” Vivanco said. “We as a Tribe have always stressed the importance of education and what better way to do that than to celebrate them today for their achievements?”

He cited it as a good thing that the list of honored students is growing each year, and the banquet room is getting closer to reaching its capacity.

“When we can have all of our youth celebrating their achievements and taking their education careers even higher than they could have imagined, I think that’s a win for all of us,” Vivanco said. “So as a Tribe I think we should be proud of them. Please help me say thank you once again to the students that are doing a great job.”

He told the students to make sure they are doing the best they can to reach their dreams because it is important. He then congratulated them all once again, which was followed by rousing applause from the attendees.

Estrada provided the blessing and guests were then treated to an outstanding buffet that offered a variety of foods from chicken tenders and Western sliders to tacos and baked potatoes with all the fixings. There were also omelet and pasta stations and a salad bar. The dessert tables offered cookies, cakes and other sweet treats.

Students in five categories were acknowledged with incentives. Students in the silver, gold and platinum categories received a certificate, cash envelope and varying sizes of ollas, handmade by Tony Soares.

Those in the Silver/Outstanding category with a GPA of 3.0-3.4 were Jeffrey Lee Arres, Ete’tish Arviso, Lokelani Basquez, Victoria Boiso, Noah Cardenas, Tamara Hurtado, Giovanni Liera, Lavina Lopez, Logan Lopez, Phyllis Morillo, Suun Nelson, Wayne Nelson, Audrina Michelle Pantoja, Adam Post, Emalee Post, Noah Post, Kimani Resvaloso-Sanchez, Jacob Nasūūn Romo, Gloria Valdez, Ezekiel Velazquez and Ginger Velazquez.

Those with a GPA of 3.5-3.9 in the Gold/Superior Achievement category were Ava Arenas, Emily Arrietta, Evan Glen Ayala, Nokaamay Briones, Angel Cardenas, Athena DeHoyos, Tishmal DeHoyos, Shanee Demara, Marco Hernandez, Alana Kashersky, Duke Marruffo-Lara, Ronald Morillo III, Sadie Pimentel, Danny M. Placencia, Aubrey Post, Kiat Nawishmal Resvaloso, Shawna Rivera, Paloma Rodriguez, Myah Saenz, Agustin Salgado, Raya Salgado, Noyáaykit Silvas and Bella Vallejo.

An impressive GPA of 4.0 or higher qualified the following for placement in the Platinum/Academic Excellence category: Allea Alvarez, Crystal Arrietta, Hallee Cozart, Aureny Manzanilla, Aubrey Mazza, Janessa Kalei Mojado, Mary Rose Morreo, Leland Kenneth Razon Jr., Ndiyilii Resvaloso, Sophia Resvaloso and Savannah Rivera.

High school graduates received a certificate, cash envelope, lanyard, Pendleton blanket and a commemorative plate. Upon introduction to the stage to receive their award and be photographed with Tribal Council members, Estrada provided a short description of each of them.

Huahnee Laupsa Briones enjoys watersports and trail driving and her hobby is artistic animation. She plans on receiving a business degree and becoming an entrepreneur. Wayne Walker Calderon likes to play basketball, baseball, and football and work out in his spare time. In the future, he hopes to travel the world. Angelina Chavez is a basketball player who plans to attend law school and pursue a career as a Criminal Justice Attorney.

During high school, Ava Ciccone-Cozart was varsity volleyball captain, Associated Student Body Treasurer and Editor-in-Chief of the yearbook. This fall, she will attend the College of Charleston and pursue her dream of becoming a museum curator. Steven Roy Gonzalez enjoys working out and training for MMA. His future education goals include studying Engineering or Cybersecurity to become an entrepreneur. Zachary Te’met Guacheno enjoys dirt bike riding, basketball, video games and drawing. He plans on attending Cal State San Marcos. His goals are to own a business one day and help his Tribe and people.

Keira Modesto enjoys choir, Dungeons & Dragons, animation and drawing. She is applying to CalArts and wants to become an animator.  Aimee Suvoowut Organ’s career goals are to become an anthropologist and archaeologist. Jacob Peter Pantoja enjoys media arts, music, skating and playing instruments. His career goals are to be a Sound Engineer or Music Technician. Summer Rey Ramirez enjoys baking and cooking for her family. Her career goals are to attend school in the fall to become a Nurse Assistant or Vet Technician. Jade Reyes enjoyed playing varsity softball for Tahquitz. She likes watching television and shopping. She will be attending Paul Mitchell for Cosmetology and hopes to become an esthetician.

Efren V. Reynoso enjoys football and being a member of the Native Club. He likes to work out and help coach youth football. He plans to attend Idaho State University and hopes to play college football and/or become an electrician. Rhianna Salgado was part of AFJROTC and the Four Directions Club at San Jacinto High School for four years, Soboba Youth Council for two years, and the Soboba Fire Explorer Program for three years. She enjoys beading, listening to music, and playing video games. She will be joining Cal State San Marcos for Medical Sonography with Navy NUPOC as her career goal. Andrew Velazquez was part of the golf and wrestling teams. He was Treasurer for the Four Directions Club. He will be attending MSJC in the fall.

Those students who earned their college degrees or vocational certifications also were honored with a certificate, cash envelope, lanyard, Pendleton blanket and a commemorative plate.

During College, Kaya Ciccone-Cozart played varsity softball and served on the Student-Athlete Advisory Committee. She earned a Bachelor of Science in Psychology and plans to pursue a master’s degree in social work. Her long-term goal is to build a career in social work or human resources. Benny Helms IV earned a degree in Recreation Administration with a minor in Native American Studies. He enjoys hiking, playing rugby, and spending time outdoors. His goal is to pursue a degree in Public Administration, give back to his Tribe, and build a financially stable future. Italia Manzanilla has been admitted to San Diego State University to continue pursuing a bachelor’s degree in Kinesiology with a focus on Exercise Science. Her goal is to complete her bachelor’s degree and obtain a teaching credential to become a physical education teacher, with the option of working as a substitute teacher as well.

Sierra Mendez earned her Master of Education in Learning, Design, and Technology from Concordia University Irvine. She currently serves as a resident substitute teacher at Cawston Elementary in the Hemet Unified School District. Passionate about inclusive education, Sierra is committed to supporting neurodiverse learners and fostering a nurturing classroom environment. She plans to continue her work with Cawston’s autism program and hopes to further her education with a focus on moderate to severe autism, deepening her impact in the field of special education. Nashashuk Resvaloso plans to build on her degree by obtaining a barbering license, allowing her to work with all hair types and expand her range of services.

Lynnae Rhodes earned a Bachelor of Science in Criminology and Criminal Justice with a minor in Social Science Forensics. She is actively exploring opportunities in Arizona to pursue her goal of becoming a Crime Scene Investigator. Shayna Lee Silvas-Thomas plans to complete her degree in Marine Environmental Technology and pursue a career focused on improving the health and well-being of animals. Vincent Vega’s career goal is to become a Master Technician. He completed training in auto electrical, engine performance, steering and suspension, as well as hybrid and electric vehicle technology.

All Soboba Band of Luiseño Indians Tribal members who qualified for any of these categories were invited to the luncheon held in their honor. Students who were able to attend were recognized on stage, where they received their certificates from members of the Tribal Council. Congratulating them were Chairman Isaiah Vivanco, Vice Chairwoman Geneva Mojado, Secretary Monica Herrera and Sergeant-at-Arms Daniel Valdez.

More than 50 elegant table settings were enhanced by the beautiful centerpieces created by Adona Salgado of SEISH LLC. The eldest guest at each table was allowed to take it home to enjoy. She also made the large arrangements used on stage and throughout the banquet room.

A video slide show of all the students being honored was met with much applause as each name and photo was shown. It was played at the beginning of the event and again during the luncheon. Wayne Nelson from the Inter-Tribal Bird Singers offered bird songs and invited those who wished to participate to dance.

“I want to thank the Tribe for allowing me to be here,” Nelson said. “And congratulations to all the students for their achievements.”

Each student received a raffle ticket upon check-in and was able to go home with a fun motivator to work hard in the coming school year to be able to return for next summer’s event. From gift cards and Nintendo Switch 2 game systems to Ray-Ban Meta Wayfarer sunglasses and big screen TVs, the prizes were welcomed by all the lucky and excited recipients.

The post Soboba Tribal Council honors students with academic achievement awards appeared first on The Hemet & San Jacinto Chronicle.

The Soboba Sports Complex was filled with family members and other supporters for the 10 middle schoolers who were being promoted on June 2. Principal Donovan Post welcomed all who came to “help us celebrate achievement” and thanked families for their support and time. He thanked and introduced the Noli School Board, for everything they do in the best interest of the children. In attendance were President Sandra Boniface, Vice President Lucille Briones, Secretary Avellaka Arviso, and Members-at-Large Mia Gonzalez and Darryl Silvas.

Post, who started as an English teacher at Noli, more than 25 years ago, recalled teaching many family members of the current students, including their parents. “That feeling of family is what makes us strong and that’s what makes it worth it,” he said. “It’s not just having a Tribal school that is Tribally controlled on a Reservation, but that sense of family.”

Traditionally, Post asks all students if any would like to give a speech at the ceremony and Victoria Boiso, who hopes to be valedictorian of the Class of 2029, stepped up to the podium. The outstanding eighth grader already has her sights set on attending Cornell University after she graduates from high school.

“I pride myself on being a leader,” she said. After thanking her friends and classmates for the many middle-school memories, she recited a poem she had written for History teacher and AVID Coordinator Lorin Alvarez, who is leaving Noli.

“In every lesson a world to explore, you opened doors we hadn’t seen before,” she read, in part. “Thank you, Alvarez, for all that you’ve done, we’re going to miss you tons and tons.”

With tears in her eyes, Alvarez took the stage and presented several students with their AVID honor cords. Then she presented each student with their Certificate of Achievement/Promotion.

After the promotion was official, guests were treated to a student-made slide show that shared some of the highlights for each student and for the class as a whole.

Those who qualified for promotion, with their Tribal affiliation, are: Victoria Boiso, Soboba; Samantha Gladin, Sioux; Ani Hampton, Soboba; Celine Hollingsworth, Soboba; Tamara Hurtado, Soboba; Harlow Ortiz, Los Coyotes; Tukwut Ortiz, Soboba; Lylianna Procela Gemmell, Tohono; Kenneth Razon, Soboba; and, Gabriel Romero, Yaqui.

On the morning of June 3, seniors and their families were invited to a luncheon where the students received special recognition for accomplishments during the year. The Sports Complex was set up with a table for each senior that had their photos and a program for the commencement ceremony, being held that evening at the Soboba Casino Resort Event Center.

Noli’s Class of 2025 are Babe Briones, Soboba; Valedictorian Daigan Cyhan, Pechanga Band of Indians; Johnny Gutierrez, Soboba; and Salutatorian Arionna Ward, Torres Martinez Desert Cahuilla Indians.

The event also served as a college-signing day as the students were given a symbolic certificate to sign, acknowledging their commitment to higher education goals. Post said, “You take all our hopes and dreams with you; you are our future.”

Daigan is headed to UCR to study biology for a career in the medical field, Arionna received a full-ride scholarship to Redlands University and will major in business and finance that will enable her to help her Tribe, Babe will enroll in the FABTECH program at The FAB School to become an automotive welder and Johnny plans to become a history professor, beginning his studies at Mt. San Jacinto College.

Senior Advisor Jacquelin Phillips presented individualized recognition certificates.

“My most valuable moment was watching your students grow,” she told the families, and to her students she said, “Thank you for letting me push you.”

Multiple achievement awards and recognition for leadership, academic excellence, participation in AVID and ASB and more were given to the seniors. The Principal’s Award was presented to Daigan for “Outstanding Academics” for his 4.0 GPA.

Crystal awards for earning the top two spots in their graduating class were presented to Daigan, whose “accomplishments have set an inspiring example” and to Arionna “for consistently producing at the highest levels.”

That evening, seniors watched the Soboba Casino Resort Event Center fill up for the commencement ceremony. As each one took the stage, a prerecorded message was played, where they introduced themselves, thanked special people in their lives, shared a memorable high school moment, and a favorite quote.

Babe Briones has attended Noli since ninth grade and his favorite quote is by rapper King Von, “If you ain’t ready to lose, you ain’t ready to win.” Daigan Cyhan began at Noli in sixth grade and chose a quote by musician Drake, “Never let success get to your head, and never let failure get to your heart.” Johnny Gutierrez also started at Noli in sixth grade and shared, “Let everything happen to you, beauty and terror, just keep going, no feeling is final” by Austrian poet Rainer Maria Rilke. Arionna Ward enrolled at Noli in her sophomore year. Her favorite quote is by American writer Mercedes Lackey, “If it’s stupid and it works, then it’s not stupid.”

Principal Post reflected on the 27 graduations he has been part of and thanked Tribal Council and the School Board for all their years of support. As a Soboba Tribal member himself, he said the campus has always had a strong sense of community.

Daigan participated in the “Calling of the Four Directions” and Desert Cahuilla Birdsongs led by his uncle John W. Contreras and family. Daigan’s mother Tashina Miranda Ornelas coordinates the culture department at Noli and she and her daughter, who is a student there, joined other bird dancers.

In her speech, Salutatorian Arionna said, “As we begin a new chapter of our lives and our paths go in different ways, we will always share the memories here at Noli. Live with no regrets and be true to who you are.” She thanked those who attended the ceremony and those who couldn’t be present but are watching from above, with the best seats.

“Even though they couldn’t be with us on our special day, they are always walking alongside us and will always be with us in our hearts,” she said. Arionna wore a memorial medallion with a photo of her beloved grandfather Michael Salgado and the words “Always Pops.”

Valedictorian Daigan shared that attending Noli has been one of the greatest experiences of his life. “Being able to attend an all-Native American school has meant a lot to me,” he said. “I think that the cultural impact that it has had on me was very key to the person I am today.”

Principal Post shared the special acknowledgement each graduate received from Assemblymember James C. Ramos that read, “On behalf of the California State Assembly and as Chair of the California Native American Legislative Caucus, it is my privilege to present you with this certificate of recognition for your graduation as a 2025 Noli Native American student. Your tireless efforts and educational achievements are a testament to all that is to come. I wish you the best in your future endeavors as a Native American scholar. Congratulations.”

Post then invited Chairman Isaiah Vivanco to the stage and stated the students have met all requirements set forth by the state of California, the Department of Education and the Bureau of Indian Education and he was nominating them for graduation.

“I accept your nomination and declare these students to be graduates of Noli Indian School,” Vivanco said. Loud applause followed and the students turned their tassels and left the stage to meet with their families and friends.

The post Noli Indian School students reach milestones appeared first on The Hemet & San Jacinto Chronicle.

Once they were all lined up in front of the stage, Soboba Elder Marian Chacon offered a blessing for the parents, families and all the helpers.

“Heavenly Creator, we ask you to bless these children and to keep them safe as they go on to new adventures,” she said in part.

The Intertribal Bird Singers and Dancers then joined the students, with girls in their traditional bird skirts and boys with their handmade gourd rattles.

After they all took their seats on stage, Preschool Administrator Lenora “Ponie” Mojado welcomed everyone to the event. Her words were heartfelt and a little bittersweet as she recalled the past year working with the students, many who she has known throughout the seven years she has been at the preschool, first as a teacher’s aide and then as a preschool teacher

“It is a great honor to celebrate these kindergartners,” she said. “These children are special to my heart and will forever be my friends.”

Mojado told the children she will miss the talks she had with them throughout the school day as they leave and move on to first grade.

“Remember to feel confident, be fearless, and strive for greatness,” she told them. “Whether you become leaders in the Tribe, work for the Tribe, or pursue careers as educators, lawyers, doctors, I want you all to find success in life. I look forward to seeing you at the Fiesta, softball tournaments, gatherings, and around the Rez.”

She introduced and thanked teachers Laura Aldrete and Elena Vega-Castello for their hard work and dedication throughout the year.

“Ms. Elena and I are extremely delighted to welcome you all to our 2025 kindergarten graduation,” Aldrete said. She thanked Tribal Council for their help and support of the school, the families for their continued love, support and encouragement, and all the staff and other teachers at the preschool for all they do every day.

To the students she said, “You have learned so much during your time in kindergarten. You have learned ABCs and 123s, painted beautiful pictures, told wonderful stories, and discovered the joy of learning. Each of you has worked so hard and we are all so proud of you. Dream big and remember each and every one of you is unique and can be and do anything.”

Graduates are Cha’ish Briones, Loovi Burton, Emilia Chapparosa, Kai Crook, Leilani Grant, Jensen Hamilton, Jonathan Helms Jr., Palki Herrera, Dominick Lara, Azalea MacDonald, Kisinta Martinez, Lupitah Miranda, Anthony Ortega, Paa’akal Resvaloso, Tavish Valdez, Jefferey Vallez, Avellaka Vega, Notoowish Velazquez, and Jericho Vivanco.

The students then performed songs before being presented with their individualized certificates of achievement for excelling in math, reading, painting, making friends, and more. A video message by each of them, describing what they had enjoyed most about the school year, was played on the big screen as they posed with their certificate and diploma for photos to be taken.

All of them have set their sights on what they want to do when they grow up. Like most five- and six-year-old children, they might change their minds by the time they graduate from high school in 2037. But for now their plans are to be a professional baseball player (Cha’ish); ballerina teacher (Loovi); veterinarian (Emilia); police officer (Kai); dolphin trainer (Leilani); pizza baker (Jensen); pizza maker (Jonathan); princess or doctor (Palki); Blue Beetle superhero (Dominick); veterinarian (Azalea); chef (Kisinta); veterinarian (Lupitah); helicopter police officer or SWAT team member (Anthony); doctor (Paa’akal); chef (Tavish); astronaut (Jefferey); doctor (Avellaka); professional dirt bike rider (Notoowish); and police officer (Jericho).

Each child received a gift bag of items, such as a plush bear with a mortarboard and diploma, to remind them of the school’s mascot, a Class of 2025 framed photo of the child in their cap and gown, and a yearbook filled with happy memories from the entire year. Gifts also included an American Doll for the girls and Lego sets for the boys, donated to the school by Santa Claus Inc.

The school is now enrolling for the fall semester. For more information, https://preschool.soboba-nsn.gov.

The post Kindergartners say goodbye to Soboba Tribal Preschool appeared first on The Hemet & San Jacinto Chronicle.

Preschool Administrator Lenora “Ponie” Mojado said the school has always hosted a Mother’s Day celebration but because Father’s Day arrives in the summer, this year on June 15, students who have been there all year didn’t get an opportunity to share a special event with their dads, which they feel is important.

An outer space theme titled “Dad is out of this world” was spread throughout the multipurpose room that is adjacent to the preschool. A huge, balloon-trimmed screen that said, “I love you to the moon and back” was used for photos and a backdrop for the children to perform a song in Luiseño for their fathers and other invited father figures in their lives.

Wall decorations consisted of class projects with input from each student. One had mini rocket ships that each student colored, another had a large flying saucer with individual smaller ones surrounding it that were colored by each student and a giant spaceship filled with self-portrait astronauts included all the kindergarten kids.

The children made lots of handmade keepsake gifts. Preschoolers completed a questionnaire about their fathers with comments like: My dad loves to “sing.” Answers to finish the sentence Most of all I love my dad, included “he’s the bestest” and “he makes me happy.” Khloe Razon said, He is so strong “he can pick up heavy stuff and me.” She also said her favorite thing to do with her dad Leland is “play hide and seek.”

Kindergartners made and colored a cardboard toolbox with pictures of wrenches, saws, hammers and more on which they also completed sentences. Palkí Herrera said “working” when describing what her dad Gabe Herrera is really good at doing. She also completed the sentence: Thank you for “taking care of me.”

The toolbox contained more gifts. One was a laminated strip of three photos of their child holding the letter I, a heart and the letter U. Another was a small handmade pottery dish they painted, along with a few other special items.

Fathers also got to enjoy creating a keepsake with their children as each was given a small plaster cast of a planet, a rocket, or an astronaut they could paint in a variety of colors.

All guests were treated to a buffet of nachos or tacos with their choice of toppings, cups of cool watermelon cubes and mini churros.

The post Dads are honored at Soboba Tribal Preschool appeared first on The Hemet & San Jacinto Chronicle.

Rainbow tablecloths, potted flower centerpieces and colorful balloons greeted the guests as they arrived for the mid-morning brunch. It was obvious that a lot of preparation went into the special event as evidenced by the array of handmade gifts the children presented to their moms.

Preschoolers created a keepsake handprint flower with a photo of them in the center, “planted” in a pot that read: “This is the hand you used to hold, when I was only three years old.” Another gift was a suncatcher with dried flowers used to decorate a painted handprint and pressed between glass. They also completed questionnaires about their moms that were laminated to last. Moms said some of the answers were correct, such as their favorite color and food, and others brought smiles to their faces.

Ellie Calderon answered that if she could buy her mother Angie any gift, she would get her “all the unicorns in the world.” And she thinks her mom looks beautiful when “she hugs me and says she loves me.”

Pre-K students made larger pots with photos, decorated a small heart shaped ceramic dish that moms could use for rings and things, and used colorful squares to make a mosaic flower that was laminated to keep all pieces in place. The children wrote their names on the back around the printed sentiment that read, “If mothers were flowers, I’d pick you.” All items were packaged in a festive pink Happy Mother’s Day gift bag.

Kindergarten kids colored flowers that were printed on canvas tote bags. Inside was a laminated frame of a flower bouquet that the children colored and completed reasons why “My mom is the best mom.” They also drew a picture of their mom on a small plate that read, “Everything I am, you helped me to be” and created bookmarks using their finger and thumb prints.

Lorina Duro, who was attending as a guest of her great granddaughter, kindergartner Kisinta Martinez, said what she likes about the preschool is that the children are taught their language and about their culture.

After Duro provided a blessing, each group took turns performing two songs they learned for the special occasion. One song was in the Luiseño language and others were about all the things their mothers do for them and how much they are loved.

Kindergartners used yet another gift they made as a prop for the song before presenting it to their mothers. A laminated heart was outlined with button photos they had cut out and glued around the saying, “Moms are like buttons, they hold everything together.”

Before lining up to enjoy the brunch buffet, everyone got to enjoy a paint party with directions from artforkidshub.com projected on a big screen at the front of the room. The guided lesson had kids and their moms use crayons or markers to create a step-by-step tulip on a small canvas that was provided to everyone at the table.

Teachers and aides strolled around the room to offer encouragement, praise and extra crayons to the kids and mothers. After the drawings were completed, Soboba Tribal Preschool Administrator Lenora “Ponie” Mojado told the children they could make the flower any color they wanted. “Also, be sure and write ‘mom’ on it since you all know your letters,” she said.

Mojado’s Mother’s Day plans include a traditional annual trip to the Soboba Casino Resort for brunch with her sister, Geneva Mojado, and both their families. Later in the day, all the ladies in the family plan to meet at Geneva’s house for a barbecue.

Lots of miniature pastries, cookies and other sweets were available as well as waffles, pancakes, individual cups of pasta or watermelon cubes. There was also fresh green salad and small squares of different flavors of cake with “Happy Mother’s Day” toppers on each one.

Ali Arroyo attended with her preschooler Neqpikat Arroyo-Modesto and his younger sister Nikiilisih, 2. She enjoyed the gifts her son made for her and Neqpikat said he had fun drawing the flowers. He completed the sentence, “My mom looks beautiful when” with “she’s in a car or playing softball.” Sunday plans for Mother’s Day were scheduled to include his fourth birthday party with a Monster Jam theme.

“I love how involved everyone at the school is,” said Arroyo, who plans to enroll her daughter as soon as she is ready. “I’d rather they be here for the beginning of their school experience than at another school.”

Sierra Mendez’s son Kuyvaxish is in pre-kindergarten and attended the school last year. She really enjoyed the flowerpot photo and a wooden spoon he decorated with his fingerprints. She said after a birthday party at the house, she expects the rest of her Mother’s Day to be quiet and relaxing.

Taylor Girard loved all the cute gifts presented by her daughter Natalia, who is in preschool. They plan to spend Sunday as a family, enjoying pizza. Renee Rhodes said every gift from her four-year-old daughter Laylah Robledo was good. She especially liked the glass sun catcher that she plans to hang at her desk at work.

“I don’t know how to draw but I was able to do the art project,” Rhodes said. Laylah is the youngest of her seven children, all of whom attended preschool at Soboba. Her plans for Mother’s Day are to “enjoy the day.”

Elena Vega-Castello aids kindergarten teacher Laura Aldrete and has twins who are currently in the Pre-K class with Ana Garcia and Alaina Adkins. Paa’kal and Kut are five years old, and their mom really liked sharing the morning with the other moms while watching her students interact with their families.

Vega-Castello said she really appreciated the flowerpot craft her children made because her daughter’s name (Paa’kal) means sunflower in Luiseño.

The post Soboba Tribal Preschool celebrates moms appeared first on The Hemet & San Jacinto Chronicle.

The children had surprise gifts for their moms, too. They decorated canvas tote bags and filled out questionnaires “All About Mom.” Preschooler Nadia said her mom’s name is “Mommy” and that she is really good at “everything.” A classmate of hers said their favorite thing about their mom is “when she gives me cookies.”

Pre-K students used colorful handprints in a circle to resemble a flower to which green stems were painted on. Inside was a jar candle decorated with a mosaic made from colorful tissue paper. Kindergartners colored flower pots that were printed on the totes and decorated plates that were put inside each one. Grandmothers received keychains with mini handprints on them.

Glori Lindsey said her daughter Avareign, 6, did a “berry good job” with all the gifts she made. “I love everything so much,” she said. Glori was able to spend some valuable time with her family, which also includes two sons, on the official Mother’s Day of May 12 at a resort in Palm Springs.

Celena Morillo and her daughter, Menyil Tohee, 5, enjoy everything the preschool has to offer. “I like all the different things they ask them to make; they are very creative,” Celena said. On Mother’s Day her family cooked her breakfast and then all her sisters came over for lunch and to spend time together outside.

Rosemary Morillo is great-grandmother to Avareign and grandmother to Menyil and shared the time with fellow grandmother Nancy Beltran. Another great-granddaughter of Morillo’s is Nehsoon Salas, 5, who filled in the blanks “All About My Mom” by saying if she could tell her mom one thing, it would be, “You are gorgeous.” The kindergartner’s mother Avelaka Gonzales said this is the first year her daughter has attended the preschool.

“She has learned so much about animals and plants and she’s having fun while she’s doing it so that’s the best part,” Gonzales said. On Mother’s Day she was treated to a spa day while Nehsoon and other family members cleaned the house for her.

Morillo, who offered a blessing before the brunch was served, said, “It’s always an honor to get together with all the mothers,” she said. She asked the Creator to bless all family members in attendance and reminded everyone to “cherish these moments with your young ones, as time goes by so fast.”

Preschool teachers and staff served up mini cold cut sandwiches, two kinds of salad, chicken, mashed potatoes, green beans and pasta salad. There were also bags of chips and other crunchy snacks, a huge bowl of fresh berries and strawberry topped cupcakes and Rice Krispie treats. All of this was washed down with lemonade, bottled water or a refreshing strawberry drink.

Corryn Salgado-Flores enjoyed the morning with her daughter Love Salgado-Flores, 3, and son Ace Covington, 5, along with their grandmother Becky Flores. Corryn said she likes that the preschool offers her children a chance to learn their Native language. “They also get to go to school with a few of their cousins,” she said.

The event provided an opportunity for all siblings and relatives who are in different classrooms to be together to celebrate as a family.

Tribal Council Secretary Monica Herrera has two grandchildren who are students there; Pre-K student Palki and kindergartner Gabe who were with their mom, Alyssa Salgado.

“I like the themes they do every year; it’s always super cute,” Herrera said. “I love that the school does this to bring the community together.”

Cyndi Lemke, whose grandson Iggy Alcala is in the kindergarten class, had a great personal Mother’s Day. “All the moms came to my house,” she said. “All us ladies had snacks and watched movies while the guys made and served breakfast. It was also my birthday, so I got extra flowers.”

Soboba Tribal Vice Chairwoman Geneva Mojado said, “I came to celebrate with all these special moms.” Mother of two, she enjoyed her own Mother’s Day on May 12. “We had Sunday brunch at the casino, which was amazing.”

One of the newest moms in attendance was Daise Burton with her five-week-old son, Jobi, who has an older brother Joseph, 8, and an older sister, Loovi, 4, who is in Ana Garcia’s Pre-K class. The kids were joined by their “glamma” Dondi Silvas, who serves as Soboba Foundation President and Housing Specialist for Soboba Housing.

Sierra Mendez had a second son six weeks ago and was at the event with her four-year-old son, Kuyvaxish Mendez, who is in Lenora “Ponie” Mojado’s class. Sierra also has a stepdaughter, who is 10. She was pleased to be one of the lucky raffle prize recipients and chose a satin sleep mask and pillowcase set, sure to be well used in the future. Other choices were handbags and cast-iron pans.

Preschool teacher Mojado has two sons; Mac is 10 and Eli is 8. She had spent Sunday with family at the Soboba Casino Resort’s brunch. “It was amazing; they had a buffet with different items,” she said. “Then I went shopping at Bath and Body Works and later I went to my sister’s house for family dinner. It was the perfect Mother’s Day of relaxing and shopping.”

She enjoyed giving out prizes at the raffle and said the mothers in attendance seemed to feel really appreciated and enjoyed the food they were served.

“My favorite part about working with children is they make me laugh and smile,” Mojado said. “We always joke around in my preschool class. I always make the children laugh and carry on a conversation. It’s always a fun time in the preschool room with all my little friends.”

Julissa Garcia is an Instructional Aide in the pre-kindergarten classroom. Celebrating Mother’s Day with her almost one-year-old son included going to dinner with her mother and aunt.

“My son and his dad also shared gifts and gave me a couple extra hours of sleep,” she said.

She enjoyed the feeling of togetherness at the preschool’s brunch.

“I liked seeing all of our children’s families show up for them and their reactions to the handcrafted gifts they made in class,” Garcia said. Her favorite part of working with the young children is “seeing them grow and progress each day and being given the opportunity to help foster lifelong learning.”

Preschool staff have already begun preparations for a Father’s Day luncheon on May 31.

The post Mothers celebrated at Soboba Tribal Preschool event appeared first on The Hemet & San Jacinto Chronicle.

Held this year at San Diego State University, DTI’s mission is to challenge Native youth to D.R.E.A.M., which is an acronym for Dedication, Responsibility, Education, Attitude, Motivation. The youth conference was started in 2007 by several Southern California Tribes and Tribal organizations. The dream began when local youth councils planned to organize a conference specifically for Southern California Native youth. After several planning meetings, the youth voted on a conference name and agreed to host the first ever Southern California Native Youth Conference on the Soboba Indian Reservation at Noli Indian School and the Sports Complex. The success of this conference marked the beginning of the Dream the Impossible Youth Conference becoming an annual event. Today there are more than 35 Tribes, Tribal organizations, and universities that contribute to the DTI Youth Conference.

Soboba Tribal TANF Program Regional Prevention Manager Harold Arres said he enjoyed listening to keynote speaker Assemblymember James Ramos, who talked about the resiliency of the Native people. Program Specialist Mayra Campos said a highlight to her was the number of youths that gathered for the event.

“This was my first year attending and I was amazed at all the different groups that attended from various areas. Everyone came together to participate and enjoy the event,” she said.

Ten breakout sessions were repeated throughout the day to provide students with the opportunity to attend three of their choosing. A variety of subjects were covered, including MMA is Not Just a Sport; Culture, Tribal Law, & Our Community Values; Stay Rooted in Indigenous Culture through Farming; and The Future of Native Filmmaking.

TANF member Reese Elliott, 16, learned about the difference between Western law and Indian Country law in a session facilitated by Dwight K. Lomayesva, Executive Director and co-founder of the American Indian Recruitment (AIR) programs that focus on serving underprivileged American Indians in education.

“My favorite part was being able to spend time with my friends and family and the Men’s Fancy and other dances,” said Reese, who also attended the filmmaking and Native Foods sessions. “What impressed me the most (about the SDSU campus) was the architectural design of the buildings. It really fascinated me.”

Zachary Guacheno also attended the Native Foods and Tribal Law sessions and learned that many college campuses have programs designed for Native American students. He also enjoyed the session on MMA, hosted by Eddie and the Native Youth Foundation. They explained how MMA offers a unique blend of physical, mental and emotional benefits such as boosting confidence and reducing stress.

“I was impressed with how big the campus is and I like how it’s close to the beach,” Zachary, 17, said. He also enjoyed the organized cultural activities, games and College Fair offered during the lunch break from 12:30 to 2 p.m.

Andrew Velazquez attended sessions that taught him more about filmmaking, tribal law and Native foods. The latter was presented by Blossom Maciel who has been teaching the art of traditional basketweaving and Native plant use for the past 19 years. She is committed to learning, teaching and passing on her rich cultural heritage to her family and community.

Andrew said he learned much about moviemaking by attending “The Future of Native Filmmaking” presented by Vision Maker Media, whose mission is empowering and engaging Native people to share stories. VMM introduced participants to the power of storytelling and filmmaking for Native communities. Andrew hopes to use the knowledge he gained in the future. “My favorite part was that we had multiple and actual movie supplies in front of us,” the 16-year-old said.

After the all-day conference, the group headed back home. For more information, please visit https://dticonference.org.

Campos said, “I hope the kids were able to accept the overall message of the conference. DTI is all about believing in yourself and aspiring to do great things. It is important for the Native youth to have confidence and self-love in order to dream big.”

Arres added, “I hope that the youth learned that anything is attainable in life.”

On May 5, TANF members were invited to an exclusive screening of the documentary “Pá’Čapa: A Mt. Rubidoux Story” at the Soboba Tribal TANF center in Riverside. It was presented by the film’s creators and co-directors Blossom Maciel and Rosy Aranda.

Pá’Čapa is Cahuilla for “where the water bends,” which can be seen along the three-mile recreational trail that looks down on the bending Santa Ana River. The site attracts upward of 1,000 visitors a day. Monuments and plaques on the mountain focus on colonial history. Through community engagement with Tribal communities, this documentary seeks to present the voices of cultural bearers to highlight how this is a sacred Native place.

Aranda and Maciel introduced the film by telling the youth a little about the process of how it came to be. “We encouraged them to continue to visit Pá’Čapa because it is a place where our ancestors were,” Aranda said.

Soboba’s Kimani Sanchez, 15, said from the film she learned that some roads that we drive on were once used by Native Americans to do trades.

After the screening, the group hiked Mt. Rubidoux, joined by the filmmakers. Aranda said it was a great feeling having the youth up there.

This was Kimani’s first visit to the mountain and she said there was a lot to see and it was beautiful. “The best part was making it to the top and being able to see little animals and an amazing view,” she said. “I plan to share the information I learned with my parents and my cousins who were not able to go on the hike.”

Anthony Salgado, 18, is from the Cahuilla Band of Indians and was surprised to learn that the people from Pá’Čapa were mountain Cahuilla. “Climbing was the best part,” he said about making his first hike there.

Kevin Estanislao from Soboba discovered from the film that Native Americans were the first residents of Riverside and plans to share all he learned with his friends. “I liked the scenery,” the 14-year-old said about the hike. “The best part was climbing the steps to the cross.”

May 5 was also the National Day of Awareness for Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women. “It was a beautiful day for us to do that ‘walk of reverence’ on MMIW day. We all had shirts with the red handprint as we made our way to the summit,” Aranda said. “Stopping to discuss different parts of the mountain like the dynamite explosions in the rocks and seeing Big Spring Rancheria from above were a few highlights.”

The next opportunity for the public to view “Pá’Čapa: A Mt. Rubidoux Story” will be Saturday, June 15 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. when it will be playing on a loop at the Ya’i Heki’ Regional Indian Museum at Lake Perris, 17801 Lake Perris Dr. in Perris.

“We feel there is a need to share this documentary locally so concentrating on schools, colleges, universities and museums in the surrounding area is our focus. We have had a positive response from everyone who has seen it; the support has been humbling,” Aranda said. “We know how important this piece of Riverside history is and spreading awareness is the start of a conversation that helps bring change.”

For more information, please email abbyroro63@yahoo.com and blossom_maciel@yahoo.com or visit Instagram at @pa.capa documentary, @earthyblossom, @nichil.rosy and @motherearthclan.

The post Tribal youth learn away from home appeared first on The Hemet & San Jacinto Chronicle.